Dr A Siri, Project Director, Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS), has said that the goal is to completely eliminate HIV in the State by 2030. She called upon the AP SACS officers and staff to work towards that goal with dedication. She was the chief guest at an HIV/AIDS awareness programme organised at Tummalapalli Kala Kshetram in Vijayawada on the occasion of World AIDS Day. Speaking on the occasion, she said that out of about 3.25 lakh HIV victims in the State, only 2.75 lakh have been identified. She urged the rest to get tested immediately and start treatment.
Acknowledging the State’s challenges in identifying and treating all affected individuals, she expressed satisfaction with the 96 per cent viral load suppression rate among those receiving treatment.
Dr Siri highlighted a gap, with only 81 per cent of identified individuals undergoing treatment. Approximately 54,000 people remain untreated. Among the affected population, about 20,000 are youth, with most new cases reported in this age group. She stressed the need to increase awareness on HIV/AIDS, particularly among the youth, stating that early treatment can enable a long and healthy life.
Dr Siri reassured that there is no need to fear HIV infection as effective treatments are available. She encouraged everyone at risk to get tested at Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs), assuring confidentiality. She also informed that Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) centers are available Statewide, ensuring no one has to travel more than 50 km to access treatment. To reduce the burden on patients, three-month medication supplies are provided at once.
Earlier in the day, a rally was organised from the Vijayawada railway station to Tummalapalli Kalakshetram under APSACS’ aegis. Various cultural programmes were later performed to enhance public awareness. This year’s World AIDS Day was observed under the theme “Take the Right Path”, emphasising everyone’s right to know about and maintain their health.
APSACS APD Dr Saraswati Devi, Zonal Director Dr T Manjula, Dr Kameshwar Prasad, Dr Bhagyalakshmi, DD Dr Chakravarthi, PEPFAR State Coordinator Dr Rajendra Prasad, and Dr Samaram attended the programme.
Goal to eradicate hiv in AP by 2030: Dr Sirin Out of 3.25 lakh HIV victims in State, only 2.75 lakh have been identified
